Photo Gallery, Review & Specifications |
2010 Mazda RX-8
Launched in 2003, the Mazda RX-8 hit the global market with a serious bang. The RX-8 has won 48 global vehicle awards since its release including 2003 Japanese Car of the Year, Australia's Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 2003, 2003 International Engine of the Year, 2004 Singapore Car of the Year, the 2004 U.S. Best Sports Car and UK Car of the Year 2004. It was also named on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 2004, 2005, and 2006. (continued below)
Pure Sports Car Verve Meets Four-Door Functionality
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Source: Mazda | Published: Tue Aug 24, 2010 |
(continued from above)
In addition, the RENESIS Rotary Engine has won nine awards since 2003. All
together, Mazda has sold nearly 182,000 RX-8s around the world.
Significantly updated for 2009 with a refreshed exterior and interior design,
enhanced performance and an R3 model for the ultimate driving enthusiast, RX-8
maintains the same great features for 2010, while refining a few simple touches.
To better accommodate consumer demands, the 2010 RX-8 is available with two trim
levels - Sport and Grand Touring - and the R3 model, specially designed with the
enthusiast in mind. Unchanged is the core of the RX-8 - a high-powered,
lightweight and perfectly balanced machine powered by the world-renowned
twin-rotor RENESIS rotary engine.
Performance Innovation: Rotary
Engine
Through-and-through, the RX-8 is a pure sports car that gives
the driver an exciting and dynamic experience. With its superior body rigidity
and structural reinforcements, the rear suspension geometry was reconfigured for
the 2009 model year for better handling performance and improved driveshaft
rigidity.
To achieve this sophisticated dynamic, Mazda utilizes the
advanced RENESIS (Rotary Engine genesis - or rebirth of the rotary engine)
engine. The Mazda RX-8 remains the only mass-produced rotary-powered passenger
car in the world. While exhibiting unusually high power output for a naturally
aspirated engine, RENESIS outstrips comparable reciprocating engines in terms of
acceleration, the feeling of power in reserve and quick response.
The
Mazda RX-8 is available as either a 232-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed
manual transmission, or a 212-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed automatic
with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for a Formula 1-style driving
experience.
Mazda RX-8: Review (2/2)
Specifications |
Key: AT - automatic transmission, MT - manual transmission, F/R/AWD - front/rear/all wheel drive |
Powertrain |
Type |
R2 |
DiDisplacement |
80 cu in (1308 cc) |
Powertd>
| 232 hp @ 8500 RPM |
Torque |
159 lb-ft @ 5500 RPM |
Redline |
9000 RPM |
Driveline |
Rear Wheel Drive |
Transmission |
6 Speed Manual |
Brakes & Tires |
Brakes Front - Rear |
Ventilated Disc - Ventilated Disc |
Tire Size Front - Rear |
225/45 R18 (Std.) |
|
225/40 R19 (Opt.) |
Exterior Dimensions & Weight |
Length |
175.6 in |
Width |
69.7 in |
Height |
52.8 in |
Curb Weight |
3065 lbs |
Performance |
0-60 |
n/a |
1/4 Mile |
n/a |
60-0 Braking |
n/a |
Top Speed |
n/a |
Fuel Economy |
EPA Fuel Mileage - City/Highway |
16/22 |
Origin & Price |
Origin |
Japan |
Base Retail Price (MSRP) |
$26,645 |